``The library has a good reputation in the community and in the area for providing good service,'' director Betsy Wilkens said. ``I'm proud of the staff for their efforts to achieve these accomplishments.''

A fiscal-year-end report that Wilkens released indicates gains in several areas of library services.

From July 1, 1996 to June 30, 1997 -- Wilkens' first full fiscal year as director -- patrons made 160,000 visits to the library. Librarians answered 14,000 reference questions, and coordinated 290 programs, which were attended by 9,000 people.

``The statistics pay tribute to the administration of the library,'' Town Manager Philip Dunn said. ``It goes to show you the work that's going on over there.''

Wilkens attributed the usage increases to changes in buying patterns, more attractive displays and changes in loan periods.

``We're really merchandising the collection,'' she said. ``We're making the library more user-friendly.''

Increases in programs for children also have helped to bring in more patrons, she said.

A survey last fall indicated widespread satisfaction with the library. Of the more than 620 patrons who responded to the computerized poll, 93 percent of rated the staff as excellent or very good; 95 percent said the selection of materials is excellent, very good or good.